Savor the bold, tangy flavors of Chamorro Bistek, a beloved dish from the Pacific island of Guam that combines tender slices of beef with a savory soy-vinegar marinade. This hearty recipe features caramelized onions and a rich, umami-packed sauce that perfectly complements the juicy seared steak. The dish is finished with optional red chili flakes for a subtle kick and a garnish of fresh green onions for a pop of color and brightness. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, Chamorro Bistek is both comforting and satisfying, making it a standout dinner option that's easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and a short marinade for maximum flavor, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you're craving island-inspired cuisine.
Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick, against the grain to ensure tenderness.
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, white vinegar, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Stir well to create the marinade.
Place the beef into the marinade and mix thoroughly, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
While the beef marinates, slice the onions into rings and set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in batches to sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
Return the seared beef to the skillet and mix with the onions.
Add water to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has slightly reduced.
If desired, sprinkle red chili flakes for a hint of spice and stir well.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more soy sauce or vinegar to balance the flavors.
Serve the Chamorro Bistek hot over freshly cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Calories |
3328 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 138.3 g | 177% | |
| Saturated Fat | 49.9 g | 250% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 17.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 680 mg | 227% | |
| Sodium | 6729 mg | 293% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 237.7 g | 86% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.0 g | 39% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.9 g | ||
| Protein | 272.0 g | 544% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 355 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 35.4 mg | 197% | |
| Potassium | 4389 mg | 93% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.